Idaho State University President to deliver State of University
Curtis Jackson
POCATELLO, Idaho (KIFI)—Idaho State University President Robert Wagner delivered his State of the University address Tuesday afternoon.
It was held in the Bengal Theater in the Pond Student Union building.
You can watch the president’s address below.
The following is a news release from Idaho State University.
POCATELLO, Idaho (ISU) – At his State of the University address Tuesday afternoon, Idaho State University President Robert Wagner celebrated another year of strong enrollment growth, crediting many initiatives and programs universitywide that have helped create a supportive student experience.
Fall 2024 Census Day total enrollment was 13,078 students – the highest since Fall 2015, with the highest new student undergraduate cohort since 2014. In addition, ISU is serving over 23,000 workforce training, professional development, and continuing education students.“We are truly making an impact and providing a transformational educational opportunity to more students nationwide,” Wagner said. Wagner credited the hard work of faculty and staff, along with $54 million in scholarships and waivers that have helped make education accessible to more students. Programs such as the INCLUDE grant, which offers dual enrollment opportunities, mental health support, and community resources to students in rural communities also expand access and are helping Idaho improve its go-on rate, Wagner said.
“Today’s students come from various backgrounds and have unique needs. Some are beginning their higher education journey right out of high school, while others are returning to college after starting families or careers,” he said. “We must meet them where they are, offering flexible programs, supportive environments and practical skills and knowledge that prepare them for the future.”
Wagner also highlighted partnerships throughout Idaho and the region that are addressing needs in high-demand careers. The new Registered Certified Nurse Anesthetist program, set to launch in Fall 2025, has over 200 applicants for 24 available spots. Nursing programs continue to grow with the launch of accelerated bachelor’s cohorts in Coeur d’Alene and Twin Falls, in partnership with Kootenai Health and St. Luke’s Magic Valley.
“This initiative not only increases the number of qualified nurses but also integrates students into these communities as they train,” Wagner said.
This year, Idaho State University also completed a 30-year Campus Master Plan, which includes investments in infrastructure and facilities statewide.
In Meridian, ISU will soon begin a multi-year project expanding on existing facilities, including new facilities, expanded student housing, clinical spaces, and innovative partnerships to address the growing demand for healthcare education and services in Idaho.
“These projects are more than just investments in infrastructure – they’re investments in our future,” Wagner said. “They reflect our commitment to creating a campus that supports the needs of our students, faculty, and community while paving the way for transformative growth. And this is only the beginning.”
This year, ISU also expanded its reach by entering into five new Memorandums of Understanding, forging partnerships that will drive progress and opportunity for our students, faculty and the communities we serve. ISU deepened collaborations with several key institutions, including the Idaho National Laboratory, Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine, Lewis-Clark State College, College of Eastern Idaho, and the College of Southern Idaho.
“At Idaho State University, we are not just responding to challenges; we are embracing opportunities to lead, to innovate, and to transform lives,” Wagner said. “These accomplishments represent more than just milestones—they are a testament to the power of collaboration, the impact of bold ideas, and the limitless potential of our students, faculty, and community. Our commitment to innovation and partnership has never been stronger.”